Science+Department


 * Science Department **

The following __courses__ cover the Pennsylvania __academic__ standards for Science/Technology, and Environmental/Ecology.


 * Required **

__** 9th Grade **__ 9th Grade Science

__** 10th Grade **__ Keystone Biology

__** 11th Grade **__ Must take one Academic Chemistry w/Dual Enrollment option or General Chemistry

__** 12th Grade **__ Must take at least one: Physics Applied Science Anatomy & Physiology w/Dual Enrollment option (successful completion of academic chemistry is a prerequisite)

__** 9th Grade Science: **__

This course is designed as a course of study to help __students f__urther their understanding of chemical and biological/environmental concepts while integrating several key physics concepts. The general areas of study included in ninth grade science are ecosystems and energy (ecology), atomic structure and the periodic table, and the chemical basis of life (organic chemistry). Students will be required to work as scientists keeping an interactive science notebook through inquiry-based lab and classwork, complete assessments, participate in activities and case studies, conduct Internet research, and complete projects / presentations using technology in order to earn credit for this course. Students will be expected to collaborate with their peers on several projects just as scientists do. The standards are based on the PA State Standards anchored by the 2010 Keystone Chemistry and Keystone Biology Standards.

__** Keystone Biology: **__

Biology is a yearlong course that seeks a greater understanding of life on the cellular level. We will take an in-depth look at how organelles and other specific cell structures and functions allow organisms to survive in changing environments. Although not a dual enrollment course, the course incorporates both rigor and relevance into daily lessons. Students will be expected to use the scientific process as they engage in inquiry-based, hands-on science lessons covering these topics. This learning process is to be documented daily in an interactive science notebook. Biology students are expected to continue the learning cycle by participating fully in class and out of class through course readings, projects, case studies, and seminars. Multiple learning styles are addressed through class discussions, projects, lectures, technology-integration, and experimentation. Biology will prepare ALL students for a better understanding of living things (including themselves) while providing a strong biological foundation for students planning to take Dual Enrollment Advanced Biology or pursue higher education. This course is based upon the PA Biology standards and aligned to the Keystone Biology Exam anchors.

__** General Chemistry: **__

This course is designed for the Vocational School bound student. The course topics include the study of the composition of matter, how elements interact, atomic theory, types of chemical bonding, chemical reactions, gas laws, kinetic theory and stoichiometry; solutions, kinetics and reaction mechanisms, chemical equilibrium, and acids and bases. Throughout the course, connections to natural earth processes will be made. The course is based upon the PA Chemistry standards and aligned to the Keystone Chemistry Exam anchors.

__** Chemistry: **__

This course is designed for the college bound student. The course topics include the study of the composition of matter, how elements interact, atomic theory, types of chemical bonding, chemical reactions, gas laws, kinetic theory and stoichiometry; solutions, kinetics and reaction mechanisms, chemical equilibrium, and acids and bases. Throughout the course, connections to natural earth processes will be made. There is an emphasis placed on laboratory work. At the end of the course, the students will have a strong background for any entry level college science coursework. The course is based upon the PA Chemistry standards and aligned to the Keystone Chemistry Exam anchors.

__** Dual - Chemistry (11th grade): **__

Additional projects and assignments. In affiliation with __Lackawanna College__, the course enables the student to receive college credits upon completion. Dual enrollment chemistry is an academically based course for students seeking to attend a 2 or 4 year college program. The course is based upon the PA Chemistry standards and aligned to the Keystone Chemistry Exam anchors.

__** Applied Science: **__

Introduction to Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources (AFNR) introduces students to agricultural opportunities and the pathways of study in agriculture. Science, mathematics, reading, and writing components are woven in the context of agriculture and students will use the introductory skills and knowledge developed in this course throughout the CASE curriculum. Throughout the course are activities to develop and improve employability skills of students through practical applications. Students explore career and post-secondary opportunities in each area of the course.

Students participating in the Introduction to Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources course experience hands-on activities, projects, and problems. Student experiences involve the study of communication, the science of agriculture, plants, animals, natural resources, and agricultural mechanics. While surveying the opportunities available in agriculture and natural resources, students learn to solve problems, conduct research, analyze data, work in teams, and take responsibility for their work, actions, and learning. For example, students work in groups to determine the efficiency and environmental impacts of fuel sources in a practical learning exercise.

__** Physics - Dual (12th grade): **__

Physics is a senior high course designed for academic, college bound students. Upon completion of the course, the student will have an understanding of introductory physics principles and concepts. The course involves the use of algebra and basic trigonometry as the primary means of problem solving. The student will learn critical thinking skills, process problem solving skills and develop a solid background for any related college course work. Course topics include mechanics (motion, force and energy), heat, waves, sound, light and electricity. Laboratory computer work is an integral part of the course. This course is available for dual enrollment credit, in affiliation with __Lackawanna College__.

__** Anatomy & Physiology - Dual (12th grade): **__

This class is a course recommended for senior students who plan to have a career in any medical or health-related field. It is also for students wishing to expand their knowledge of human and mammalian biology. Course content includes cell structure and function, histology, and an in-depth study of the systems of the human body enhanced with laboratory investigations. Current topics and career exploration are included as a part of the curriculum. Mammalian dissections are a requirement of the course. In affiliation with __Lackawanna College__, the course enables the student to receive college credits upon successful completion. .